What do we mean by software testing?

Software testing refers to the process of evaluating and verifying a software application to ensure that it meets requirements, functions properly, and is free of errors. The purpose of software testing is to ensure the quality, reliability and usability of the software before it is delivered to the end users.

Software testing involves various activities and methods to validate and verify the functionality and performance of the software. Some important aspects of software testing include:

1. Test planning: In this phase, the test objectives, test strategy and test plans are drawn up. It determines which parts of the software need to be tested, which test methods are used, and which resources and schedule are required for the testing activities.

2. Test design: The design of the tests is determined based on the specifications and the functional requirements of the software. Test cases are created to describe the steps to be performed to test specific functionalities.

3. Test Execution: Here the predefined test cases are executed to check whether the software works correctly according to the specifications. Any errors or deviations are recorded and reported for further follow-up.

4. Test automation: Some tests can be automated to increase efficiency and reproducibility, especially in large-scale software projects. Test automation requires writing scripts to run test cases.

5. Validation and Verification: Software testing includes both validation (checking that the software meets user requirements) and verification (checking that the software has been implemented correctly according to specifications).

6. Acceptance Testing: In the final phase, acceptance testing is performed by the end users or the customer to determine if the software meets their expectations before being put into production.

Software testing is an essential part of the software development process. It enables developers and organizations to identify and fix any errors and flaws in the software before it is released to users. Thorough testing can ensure the quality and reliability of the software, minimizing problems and costs associated with errors in production.